Only a couple of weeks of school left, and we still have a lot of wonderful things to learn and do. Last week we found some students who have a knack for writing newspaper articles! This week we'll finish up our focus on Literary Nonfiction and make sure you're on target with your independent reading project. .

Monday, May 2

Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day.

We'll meet in the classroom. Then we'll head to the library so that you can check out a book for you to read and review for your independent reading project! A quick overview: you should pick a substantial book (fiction or nonfiction) of at least 150 pages, and it must be read by March 18!!! (Look at page 4 of the wiki for some additional suggestions for books.)
Book review rubric

Due dates:

      • May 18: You should finish reading the book no later than May 18.
      • May 19: The timeline which includes page numbers should be turned in at the beginning of class.
      • May 20: We will write the book review in class. Bring your rubric paper in that day. ***If you are absent on May 20, your book review is due the day after you return.
      • May 27: Any video reviews (extra credit) should be recorded. See Mrs. Brosan for more details. You are responsible for letting us know the video review is completed.
If you are absent, you must get book approval by Friday.

Tuesday, May 3


We will make a T-chart listing the similarities and differences between concentration camps and internment camps.
Then we are going to watch a video, a mini-documentary about Dr. Yasui, a local doctor who had close family members who were in a Japanese internment camp. You'll complete a viewing guide and respond to reflective questions.
If you are absent, you must make arrangements to be in our room to watch this 30-minute video. We will give you the viewing guide and the reflective response sheet when you come in.
Make sure you bring your "Night" and "Farewell to Manzanar" Reading Guides to class tomorrow.

Wednesday, May 4

You should bring your "Night" and "Farewell to Manzanar" Reading Guides to class.
We will write that long promised synthesis essay about "Night" and "Farewell to Manzanar." We're confident you will do well because of your preparation while reading the excerpts of the memoirs and your steadily improving writing skills.

Thursday, May 5

We will be working on the information essay/writing component of our class. We will be revising our essays from yesterday. Bring your pencils and your study guides!

Friday, May 6

Reading levels across the board have improved greatly this year. You will complete a reading assessment on your level and then have the time for SSR. Bring your (independent reading) book.